8 Annual Events in the Bay Area

May 29th, 2015 by Mill Rose Inn

Photo Credit: Ben_Pruchnie_Studio / iStock / Thinkstock

The San Francisco Bay Area is a large and culturally diverse hotspot for some of the world’s, and certainly the country’s, most famous events. Not only is it full of exciting and progressive things to do, it is also a staggeringly beautiful place full of ocean and bay views, hills and mountains, and more architectural wonders than you can count. From the techy south bay and Silicon Valley, the posh San Francisco, the crunchy East Bay and, of course, the wine producing Napa Valley to the north. You will find a plethora of events in the Bay Area throughout its unique regions.

Here are some of the upcoming events in the Bay Area for the remainder of 2015.

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival – June 27 – September 27Free Shakespeare in the Park takes place all summer long not just in the city, but also in Pleasanton, Cupertino and Redwood City. This summer they are playing Romeo and Juliet.

San Francisco Frozen Film Festival – July 17 – 20This independent film festival is held in the Mission district of the city every summer, and aside from showcasing films by internationally renowned filmmakers, the SFFFF also has a youth program that focuses on showcasing the work of local minority groups.

The San Francisco Marathon – July 26The marathon draws runners from all over the world who fancy a running tour of the city. Whether you want to run a full or half marathon or the arduous 52.4, there are few places as beautiful for a race.

Music in the Vineyards – July 31 – August 23This is a classy chamber music festival that happens throughout Napa Valley at the end of each summer. Musicians in residence from around the world come out to play breathtaking concerts. This year the Music in the Vineyards theme will be Schubert.

Outside Lands – August, 7 – 9This event is much more than just a music festival. It also features world class comedians, and delicious foods and beverages from around the Bay Area. Outside Lands is always a blast and takes place in the famous Golden Gate Park.

Eat Real Festival – September 18 – 20If you love food this downtown Oakland food truck fest is one of the best cultural attractions in the area. It is more than just eating, but there are also many cooking demonstrations and even classes where you can learn the secrets of famous chefs.

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass – October 2 – 4This free festival in Golden Gate Park features seven stages of music for a whole weekend of fun. These headlining artists at Hardly Strictly are worth braving the crowds.

Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival – October 17 – 18The Pumpkin Festival is a perfect celebration of both the harvest season as well as Halloween. Between the giant carved gourds, harvest inspired treats, and great musical performances, it is a great way to enjoy one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Bay Area.

This is just a small sample of the events in the Bay Area that happen each year, which are continually drawing people to the perfect place for year-round outdoor activities. If you’re planning a trip to the area and are looking for more ideas of things to do, check out this free vacation guide full of great ideas.